a>Our midsection is the key to maintaining balance within our body. It also doesn’t hurt our beach image when we show off that tight midsection. There is no secret to getting tight abs. it is a matter of hard work and determination.
The Abdominal Region
There are four muscle groups that make up the abdominal region. They are:
• Transverse Abdominis
• Rectus Abdominis
• Internal Oblique
• External Oblique
The group we most often concentrate on is the transverse abdominis. The muscle has eight sections that extend the length of our lower front torso. Everyone talks about a 6 pack but it is possible to define eight sections if you work hard enough.
The internal and external oblique muscles are on the side of our body. They strengthen our core as we bend and move to the side. Developing these muscles leads to a smaller waistline which is something we all want. Above these are the serratus which look like fingerlike projections when they are toned. You can see them coming from under the arms and moving forward.
The transverse abdominis are deeper abdominal muscles. They extend around the side of our body. Because they are deep, they are underneath the other abdominal muscle groups we mentioned. All of the muscle groups work together to bring us a tight abdominal region.
The Flat Stomach
When the abdominals are tight and toned, the area will be flat. Now, listen carefully to what was just said. The abdominals will be flat when they are toned. Actually being able to see them in this pristine condition is another matter altogether.
There are more people than you would think who have developed a rather impressive midsection. Strong abs help to prevent injury while moving around especially in awkward positions. But there is more to a flat stomach than just working the abdominal region.
Without proper diet and a good workout for the entire body, those tight abs won’t be seen. The layer of fat covering them was meant for protection of the organs from injury. Unfortunately we live in a society that lives to eat instead of eating to live. That protective fat pad has grown into a health risk.
Without minimizing the fat, tight abs won’t do us any good as far as making us slim, trim, and healthy. A flat stomach begins with the mouth—what we put into it.
Eating for Tight Abs
So what does a person looking to have a slim midsection eat? You would think it would be very little, but you must nourish the body. Starving won’t do anything except keep that layer of fat firmly in place.
Our bodies weren’t meant to eat processed foods. It is the wholesome natural food that gets a body working properly. Ditch the fast food joints and the frozen food section in favor of cooking your own meals. Choose options like:
• Green vegetables (frozen, fresh, canned)
• Fresh fruits
• Lean meats
• Fish and seafood
• Nuts and beans
• Spices and herbs
The quality of the food we eat is directly proportional to how well our body uses it. Eat well and your body will function like a well oiled machine. Avoid extra fats that the body can’t process like Trans fats and artificial substances.
Working Out
A total body workout works best. All of our muscle groups contribute to fat loss on the body. It is the body that determines where we lose the fat and when but the key is that we are ridding our body of excess fat which leads to harmful health conditions.
Aim for three to five workouts a week. Since the abs are a muscle that can withstand constant work, it is okay to work them during each workout. With other muscle groups, allow 24 to 48 hours between sessions.
Are you looking for tight abs? You may already have them but no one will notice unless you eat to live and reduce the amount of fat covering them.